Exchange money at airports, some banks and currency exchange offices, such as Reisebank, American Express and TravelEx. In rural areas, such facilities are rare, so make sure you have plenty of cash.

ATMs

ATMs widely available. Credit and debit cards accepted at most hotels and shops but not all restaurants.

Further Information

ATMs are ubiquitous, accessible 24/7 and the easiest and quickest way to obtain cash. However not all machines take all cards. Check with your bank or credit-card company about fees.

Cash

Bavaria is still very much a cash culture and making sure you have ample supply of the stuff will avoid embarrassing situations, such as trying to pay for a beer in a pub or a sausage at the railway station with your credit card. Even at the supermarket, cashiers (and the queue behind you) can still get a bit huffy if you don't have readies, especially when spending small sums.

Tipping

When to tip You could get through an entire trip around southern Germany without giving a single tip. Few service industry employees expect them these days, though most still appreciate a little extra when it comes their way.

Hotels Generally €1 per bag.

Pubs Leave a little small change for the bar staff.

Restaurants Round up the bill to the nearest €5 (or €10) if you were satisfied with service.

Taxis Round up to the nearest €5 so the driver doesn't have to hunt for change.

Exchange Rates

Australia

A$1

€0.63

Canada

C$1

€0.64

Japan

¥100

€0.76

New Zealand

NZ$1

€0.60

UK

UK£1

€1.13

USA

US$1

€0.80

For current exchange rates see www.xe.com

Credit Cards

A piece of plastic can be vital in emergencies and occasionally also useful for phone or internet bookings. Avoid getting cash on your credit card via ATMs since fees are steep and you’ll be charged interest immediately (in other words, there’s no grace period as with purchases). Report lost or stolen cards to the following:

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